Toluene, also known as toluol, is a colorless liquid with a distinctive aromatic odor. It's a common industrial solvent and chemical intermediate, with various applications across different sectors. Here's a breakdown of toluene's key uses:
Uses of Toluene:
- Solvent: Toluene is a powerful solvent used in various industries, including:
- Paint thinners
- Degreasers
- Glue formulations
- Printing inks
- Leather tanning processes
- Chemical intermediate: Toluene is a starting material for the production of numerous chemicals, such as:
- Benzene
- Xylenes
- TNT (trinitrotoluene, an explosive)
- Nylon
- Polyurethanes
- Fuel additive: Small amounts of toluene can be added to gasoline to improve octane rating, although this practice is becoming less common due to environmental regulations.
